23 Best Mascaras For Women In 2021
In This Article
Mascara helps your lashes appear longer, fuller, and wavy. Instead of opting for expensive lash extensions, you may choose a mascara that creates the falsies effect with less effort. There are waterproof, washable, flake-free, vegan, and many other varieties of mascara to choose from. All you need to do is to know what you need from mascara.
MomJunction gives you the list of the best mascaras for women and helps you choose the right mascara for your eyes.
Top Picks
23 Best Eyelash Mascara For Women
1. Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara
With this Essence mascara, you don’t need false eyelashes to enhance your look. The mascara provides a look-alike definition to the lashes by separating them precisely. With a cone-shaped brush, the mascara improves the lash volume from root to tip without leaving any clumps. It claims to provide a long-lasting effect without flaking and fading.
Available shade – Black
Mascara effect – False lash effect with volume
2. L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Original Mascara
L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Mascara was among the best selling mascaras in the United States in 2019. With a unique formula, the mascara improves the eyelash volume by 5X the natural thickness. The volume maximizing brittle brush of the product gives a soft and even look without any clumps. It contains panthenol and ceramide-R to protect and condition the lashes. It can be used by contact lens wearers as well as people with sensitive eyes.
Available shades – Black, brown, cobalt blue, deep burgundy, and deep green. Both washable and waterproof variants are available.
Mascara effect – 5X more volume
3. L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara
As the name suggests, the L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara gives volume as well as length to the eyelashes, making them look fuller. The product also claims to provide a soft feathery feel to the lashes without any flaking, clumping. The smudge-proof mascara is available in six different shades, in both washable and waterproof variants.
Available shades – Black, black-brown, blackest black, and mystic black (washable); black and blackest black shades (waterproof)
Mascara effect – Voluminous and lengthy lashes.
4. Vivienne Sabó – Cabaret Premiere Artistic Volume Mascara
With an improved lightweight and smudge-proof formula, the Vivienne Sabó – Cabaret Premiere Artistic Volume Mascara volumizes the lash line and gives them a deep black color with just one application. It provides a fanned eyelash look without any clumps or flakes. The mascara is delicate on the lashes and is easy to apply and remove without causing any damage to the lashes.
Available shades: Only black.
Mascara effect: Thick and fanned lashes.
5. Maybelline Volum’ Express The Colossal Mascara
Infused with collagen, the volume-plumping formula used in the mascara provides 9X more volume to the natural lashes with just a single coat. Apply another coat, and you will get 15X the thickness of your lashes. With a mega brush that features wavy bristles, the mascara coats the lashes from root to tip without any clumps. The lightweight formula also provides length to the lashes, making them look more dramatic. Tested by ophthalmologists, the product can be safely used by contact lens wearers.
Available shades: Classic black, glam black, glam brown, and brownish-black in both washable and waterproof variants.
Mascara effect: 15X more volume with a double coat.
6. Maybelline Lash Sensational Full Fan Effect Mascara
Claiming to provide a full-fan effect, the volumizing mascara unfolds various layers of the lashes with its exclusive 10-layer bristle brush. It also lengthens and volumizes lashes from the root to tip. The product is made with buildable liquid ink that coats the lashes without any clumps. The waterproof variant is safe to use, even on sensitive eyes and those with contact lenses.
Available shades: Blackest black, Brownish black, Very black. Available in both washable and waterproof variants.
Mascara effect: Full fan effect. Both volume and length.
7. COVERGIRL Clump Crusher Mascara
More volume, zero clumps, and water-resistance are the main features of this COVERGIRL mascara. Featuring a straight bristle edge, the mascara provides 20X more volume to the lashes while making them look separated. The curved shape of the brush perfectly fits the shape of the lash, providing root to tip coverage, while its fine bristles evenly spread the mascara.
Available shades – Five different shades, including black, very black, brown, black-brown, and neutral white. Three different variants are available – regular, waterproof, and primer only.
Mascara effect – Voluminous and clump-free.
8. L’Oréal Paris Double Extend Beauty Tubes Mascara
Specifically formulated to provide a lash extension effect, the Double Extend Beauty Tubes Mascara from L’Oréal Paris provides up to 80% longer-looking lashes. Featuring double-ended tube, one end with a primer brush, and the other end for mascara, the product creates a long-lasting, smudge-proof look. The primer aids in nourishing the lashes, preventing lash loss. The mascara can be used by people with sensitive eyes and those using contact lenses.
Available shades: Blackest black.
Mascara effect: Longer looking lashes.
9. Maybelline New York The Falsies Volume Express
Stay away from false eyelashes with Maybelline New York’s Falsies Mascara. Formulated with unique Kera-fiber, the mascara enables smooth application without any clumps. It features a unique, patented spoon curler brush design that creates the look of false lashes. The mascara provides 8X more volume from corner to corner without any gaps. It is made of ophthalmologist’s tested formula that can be used by all.
Available shades: Black drama, blackest black, brownish-black, navy blue, very black in both washable and waterproof variants.
Mascara effect: False lashes effect with more volume.
10. AsaVea 4D Silk FiberEyelash Mascara
With a single stroke, the AsaVea 4D Silk FiberEyelash Mascara claims to provide dramatic and bold-looking lashes. Formulated with deep and rich black color, the mascara makes the lashes look long and thick throughout the day. The product is waterproof and is made with natural and non-toxic ingredients causing no irritation to sensitive eyes and those with contact lenses.
Available shades: Deep black.
Mascara effect: Long and thick lashes.
11. Simply Naked Beauty Lash Science 3D Fiber Mascara
The mascara features three different tubes for hydrating, nourishing, and strengthening the lashes. The three tubes include a nourishing mascara gold tube, a mascara gel tube, and a mascara fiber tube. The nourishing mascara, which needs to be applied as a base coat, contains organic castor oil to promote lash growth. The second coating with black mascara transplanting gel, followed by black mascara fibers, creates 300X thicker lashes in just five minutes.
Available shades: Black
Mascara effect: 3D effect without false lashes, 300X thicker with lash nourishment.
12. Endlessly Beautiful All Natural Mascara
The organic formula of the mascara is enriched with many lash-nourishing ingredients such as vitamin E, chamomile, cinnamon, rosemary, grapefruit, etc. that stimulate the natural growth of the eyelashes. With a pleasant scent, the mascara makes the lashes look fuller and longer without any clumps, flakes, or smudges. This gluten and paraben-free the mascara is water-resistant and is safe to use on all eye types.
Available shades: Black, brown
Mascara effect: Provides volume and length to the lashes.
13. essence Lash Princess False Lash Waterproof Mascara
As the name suggests, the Lash Princess Waterproof Mascara provides a false lash effect by volumizing the lashes. Featuring a conical shape fiber brush, the mascara coats individual lashes separately and provides definition and thickness without globs. The product claims to last all day without fading and flaking. It is safe to use for sensitive eyes.
Available shades: Black
Mascara effect: False lash effect
14. Maybelline Full ‘N Soft Mascara – 5/1,743
Full, dense, and healthy-looking lashes are possible with Maybelline Full ‘N Soft Thick & Healthy Mascara. Enriched with vitamin E, the mascara contains an advanced thickening formula that creates a soft and fuller look to the eyelashes. Made with the patented quick-dissolve system, the mascara is quick and easy to remove without any lash loss. Approved by ophthalmologists, the mascara is hypoallergenic and can be worn by contact lens wearers.
Available shades: Black in two variants – washable and waterproof.
Mascara effect: Thick and soft.
15. Neutrogena Healthy Lengths Mascara
With a lash lengthening formula, the mascara makes the lashes look 100% longer than the original. Featuring a gentle bristle brush, the mascara coats each and every lash without any flakes and clumps. Enriched with vitamin E and olive oil, the mascara also provides nourishment to the lashes. The antioxidant-rich color instantly intensifies the look of the lashes. It can be used on sensitive eyes as well as those with contact lenses.
Available colors: Carbon black, black, and brown.
Mascara effect: Longer and stronger lashes.
16. Ellocy 4D Silk Fiber Lash 2-in-1 Mascara
The Ellocy 4D Silk Fiber Lash Mascara comes with two different brushes fitted in a single tube to provide two different looks – natural and voluminous. The step-1 brush provides a more natural look by separating and lengthening the lashes, and the step-2 brush increases volume and thickness, making the lashes look curvy. It can be safely used on sensitive eyes and also for those using lens. The waterproof mascara can be worn all day long and remains stain resistant without reapplication.
Available shades: Only black
Mascara effect: Natural and voluminous lashes.
17. S.M Extreme Dense Mascara
The D.S.M mascara claims to provide longer and thicker lashes instantly without smudging, clumping and flaking. The lightweight formula applied through the full-bodied bristled brush coats each lash evenly to provide an intense effect. The deep black pigments in the formula touch the lashes from root to tip, making them look rich and bold. Made with botanical extracts, the product is hypoallergenic and is safe to use for sensitive eyes.
Available shades: Black.
Mascara effect: Longer and thicker lashes
18. Kayla-ism 4D Silk Fiber Eyelash Mascara
Featuring a unique lash-building brush, the Kayla-ism mascara coats each and every lash from all the angles to provide a thick and full lash look. It glides smoothly on the lashes, providing a natural look without any clumps. Available in a single color, black, the mascara is suitable for everyday use. The fiber mascara claims to stay for a minimum of 12 hours without reapplication, is smudge-free, and safe to use on sensitive eyes.
Available shades: Only black
Mascara effect: Thick and full lashes.
19. Secret Xpress Control 4D Silk Fiber Lash Mascara
With a silky-smooth formula, the Secret Xpress Mascara creates longer, thicker, and voluminous lashes with just one application. The waterproof formula contains all-natural ingredients and hence, doesn’t cause any irritation. It’s smudge-free and flake-free and gives natural to glam look without clumping. The concentrated mascara lasts for several months, even when used every day. Apply once, and it stays till the end of your day without the need for reapplication.
Available shades: Black.
Mascara effect: Longer and thicker lashes.
20. God Blomster 4D Extra Volume Mascara
The mascara is specifically designed for using over lashes with falsies as well as on bare lashes. The product is oil-free and provides uniform coating along the extensions. It enhances volume and length and provides definition and color to the lashes. The mascara is suitable for various types of falsies, including single, cluster, strip, etc. It spreads the mascara without flakes and clumps, providing a more natural appearance. It contains natural ingredients and causes no irritation to the eyes.
Available shades: Black
Mascara effect: Volumizing effect on false lashes
21. Dior Diorshow Iconic Overcurl Mascara
For dense and curly lashes, the Diorshow Iconic Overcurl Mascara is the best choice. With an incurved concave brush, the mascara provides dense and curly lashes with instant styling along the entire fringe. It contains K Polymers that have sheathing and fixative properties to instantly plump and shape the lashes. The lash-care ingredients used in the mascara nourish the lashes while the stretch-effect cream formula curls them from root to tip.
Available shades: Originally available in three different shades of black, blue, and brown,
Mascara effect: Dense and curly lashes
22. Estee Lauder Sumptuous Bold Volume Lifting Mascara
The Estee Lauder mascara, with its new and never-made formula, claims to curl and lengthen the lashes without adding any weight. Featuring a unique brush comber, the mascara contains lash-thickening fibers and gives a striking makeup effect to the lashes. The product is ophthalmologist tested and scent-free.
Available shades: Black
Mascara effect: Curl and lengthen the lashes.
23. Mad Lash Black Mascara
Available shades: Black only.
Mascara effect: Rich black shaded thick lashes.
How To Apply Mascara The Right Way?
The right application of mascara elevates your eye shape, thus complementing your features. Here are some expert tips on applying mascara.
- Instead of directly applying the mascara on your bare eyelashes, curl your lashes with an eyelash curler to give them a lift.
- Starting from the root of lashes, wiggle and sweep the mascara brush in a zigzag motion till the tip.
- Repeat the same until you achieve your desired volume and definition or length.
You can also use a lash primer before applying the mascara for a more voluminous and long-lasting look.
Tips To Choose The Right Mascara For Your Lashes
When you’re looking for a specific outcome from a mascara, like a volume or curls, you need to consider a few things specific to that. Let’s look at all the things you need to consider for buying the right mascara.
- Brush shape: The shape of the brush and the thickness of the bristles are what make the magic. The design of the brush is targeted to achieve a particular effect on the lashes. Hence, check the brush design and know the effect it creates.
- Required effect: Thick, long, curly, bushy, full fan, or fluttery, no matter which look you desire, the mascara you pick should be able to deliver the same. Do not just go by what the product claims, but also look at what the users of the product say about it.
- Water resistance: Mascaras are available in both waterproof and washable variants. While the former stays smudge-free even when contacted with water, the latter is easy to remove with soap or water. Choose the one based on your requirements.
- Shade: While black remains the most preferred mascara shade, you can also experiment with different colors. Whichever color you choose, make sure it goes with your overall look for that effect.
- Safety: Mascara is one of those products that stay close to the eyes. Making sure it has non-toxic and non-allergenic ingredients is important for eye safety. Women with sensitive eyes and contact lenses should pay extra caution while picking a mascara. Mascaras with organic formulas claim to be safer than their counterparts.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many coats of mascara should I apply?
It depends on the effect that you want the mascara to have on your lashes. For a natural but little lift-up effect, use a single coat. To give more volume and curl, wiggle the brush from root to tip until the desired look is achieved.
2. Should I let mascara dry between coats?
It is one of the common mistakes made by many mascara users. Letting the mascara dry between the coats makes the lashes dry and crunchy and also makes them unmoldable. It’s fine to wait for a few seconds, say 30 before you apply another coat instead of letting the lashes completely dry. The best way is to apply to one eye, move on to another, and then come back to the first. Repeat the sequence until you get the desired look.
3. Is it harmful to wear mascara every day?
Wearing mascara every day is not recommended as it might dry out the lashes, resulting in lash fall. However, using the right products that nourish the lashes with natural elements is relatively better than using regular mascaras every day.
If wearing mascara every day is a must for you, make sure to take some extra care.
- Choose a good quality mascara with natural or non-toxic ingredients that are safe for the eyes.
- Invest in a good mascara primer that not only enables the better application but also strengthens the lashes.
- Once you remove the mascara, hydrate the lashes with coconut oil, castor oil, etc., to balance the dryness.
- Avoid rubbing eyes while the mascara is on.
- If you wear contact lenses, make sure your mascara is safe to use for your eyes.
A good mascara can up your overall makeup look and also nourish the lashes, thus preventing the damage caused by everyday mascara usage. Besides choosing the right product, proper application and removal are also important to prevent lash fall and other side effects of using the product.
What is your favorite mascara? Let us know in the comment section below.
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